Biblical Studies Fred Zaspel | September 1, 2013

The Heavenly Temple

Among the many fruits of “Biblical Theology” in recent decades is the now common understanding of Eden as God’s earthly temple — a theme that traces through to the end of Revelation where this temple, so long removed and ruined by human sin, will in the end finally be restored in a redeemed cosmos. The […]

Biblical Studies Fred Zaspel | May 1, 2013

A Healthy Heart

“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23) In these first nine chapters of Proverbs the sage is seen sitting with his son, counseling him about life. His counsel: “Fear God, and pursue His wisdom — the wisdom contained in the “proverbs” which begin in chapter […]

Biblical Studies Fred Zaspel | March 1, 2013

Unity in the Local Church

It’s shameful, but the fact is that in many respects the story of the Christian church is a story of fightings and splits. We admit it when we sing — “by schisms torn asunder.” There is scarcely a Christian church anywhere that has not endured it. “I didn’t like what he said!” and “I didn’t […]

Biblical Studies Fred Zaspel | December 1, 2012

The uniqueness of John’s Gospel

Students of the New Testament have long recognized the distinctiveness of the Gospel of John as over against the other Gospels. Matthew, Mark, and Luke are referred to as the “synoptic” (“seeing together”) Gospels, because at least in general terms they view the life of Jesus from a common perspective. Each of the four Gospel […]

Biblical Studies Fred Zaspel | October 1, 2012

Baptism Saves?

In 1 Peter 3:21 we find a statement that has been puzzling to many: “Baptism . . . now saves you.” Are we saved by baptism? In much of the nineteenth century conversion for many American Evangelicals came at “the altar call.” This was so much a part of the conversion process that when asked […]

Biblical Studies Fred Zaspel | September 1, 2011

The Acts of the Apostles

What is the book of Acts all about? What is its significance? Today I want to draw our attention to this important book, highlighting its role and function in the New Testament canon and locating its history in God’s redemptive purpose. Its Place and Role in the Canon The Promise of deliverance from sin by […]